The Kuteb Elders Forum, representing the Kuteb people of Taraba State and based in Abuja, has slammed former Minister of Defence, Lt. Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), over his recent call urging Nigerians to arm themselves in response to the country’s worsening security situation.
In a statement issued to journalists on Thursday and signed by the forum spokesperson, Mr. Filip Ande, the group described Danjuma’s remarks as “dangerous, unconstitutional, and a threat to national unity and peace.”
Danjuma, while speaking at a recent event in Taraba State, had advised Nigerians to “get arms to defend themselves against banditry,” expressing doubt in the government’s ability to effectively combat insecurity.
However, the Kuteb Elders Forum rejected the suggestion, stressing that arming civilians could lead to chaos.
“While we acknowledge the serious security challenges facing the country, we strongly oppose civilians arming themselves,” the statement read.
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“Such a call violates the constitution and undermines the authority of government and its security institutions.”
The forum expressed particular concern that the statement came from a retired military general, calling it “unfortunate and reckless.”
They further accused Danjuma of using his influence to interfere in local affairs and destabilize the traditional leadership of the Kuteb people, particularly the Ukwe Takum stool in Takum Local Government Area.
“This is not the first time General Danjuma has made such provocative statements,” the forum noted.
“Following a similar call in 2018, bandits were discovered operating from one of his farms in Takum. Those attacks resulted in the deaths of over 1,000 unarmed Kuteb civilians, the destruction of more than 200 villages, and the killing of soldiers, including a commanding officer of the 93 Battalion in Takum.”
Calling for government’s intervention, the forum urged President Bola Tinubu, the chief of defence staff, and the inspector -general of police to investigate Danjuma’s comments and step up surveillance in Takum and Ussa Local Government Areas, and the Yangtu Special Development Area.
Despite the ongoing challenges, the forum commended President Tinubu’s administration and the security forces for recent efforts that have led to a gradual return of displaced persons to their communities and farms in Kuteb land.
“We urge well-meaning Nigerians to disregard General Danjuma’s call. Security is the constitutional responsibility of the state, not private individuals,” the statement concluded.
“We reaffirm our support for President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the continued efforts to restore peace through lawful means.”
